IOWA COLONY, Texas – A Manvel High School student died Monday after being hit by a vehicle on a highway near Iowa Colony in Brazoria County.
Some students saw the aftermath of the crash but had no idea the victim was one of their classmates.
"I saw a whole lot of traffic backed up. I had to take a back road so I wouldn't be late to school. When I got to school I heard that a kid had gotten run over," said Jean Arriaga, a junior at Manvel.
According to the Department of Public Safety, the crash happened at 6:50 a.m. on the eastbound side of State Highway 6 at Louisiana.
Troopers said the teen was walking in the inside lane of traffic when he was struck by a Dodge truck.
Investigators identified the driver as 57-year-old Terry Cropper, of Rosharon. Cropper remained at the scene. Sgt. Woodard, with DPS, said he did not anticipate any charges being filed.
In a message to parents, the school’s principal identified the victim as De’Monte Benn, 18, a junior.
The principal sent the following letter to parents:
"It is with the heaviest of hearts that I share one of our students, 18-year-old De’Monte Benn, was involved in an auto-pedestrian accident in the area of Hwy 6 (Rosharon) earlier this morning. I am saddened to share that he passed away as a result of his injuries.
"De’Monte is a beloved member of the MHS community. This is an extremely difficult time for those that knew and cared for him. We share this information with the parents of our students so that you are able to provide your children with the support and assistance they need during this difficult time. Please be vigilant to determine what level of support your child may need.
"Counselors from Alvin ISD’s Crisis Response Team are at Manvel High School to offer support to students and staff that are struggling with this tragic loss. If students, staff, or parents need to talk, or have questions, our counselors are trained to assist with these difficult situations.
"Please keep the family as well as the Manvel High School community in your thoughts and prayers."